Trueblood runs for Ogden mayor after 11 years away

The name Mark Trueblood might sound familiar to longtime Ogden residents. Trueblood had been involved with the city government for 18 years through the 1990s and early 2000s. As his retirement draws near, Trueblood is once again throwing his name in the hat for Ogden city government as he runs unopposed for mayor.

“I feel it’s just a good way to give back,” Trueblood said. “I really enjoyed it and with retirement coming up, I thought I’d give it a go.”

Trueblood had previously sat on the Ogden City Council from 1991-1999 and was then mayor for the next 10 years. He stopped running for mayor after his wife developed cancer, and decided to be at her side.

However, he has kept up with the City of Ogden through the years by reading the council minutes and talking to city council members.

“I figure it’ll be easier with retirement,” he said. “Instead of having to wait to address any potential issues until I get off work, I can take care of them during the day.”

One of the benefits he sees in Ogden now is the incoming Fareway store and how it can help the improving downtown area of the city. Trueblood also wants the street repairs to keep happening, saying the smoother the streets are the better it is for the city and it’s citizens.

Trueblood is also looking forward to working with the current city council, all members running unopposed, and with Ogden Legacy to keep improving the city. He also is happy with the new sewer building and doesn’t see any issues for years to come unless the Department of Natural Resources has new rules or regulations.

He also likes the backbone of the city with all of the banks, businesses and the school district.

One area of improvement he’d like to see is more housing coming to the city. Trueblood said he doesn’t want to see massive growth but four to five new homes a year.

“There’s just not many big issues,” he said. “I just want to see Ogden keep growing. The key is not massive growth but to grow slowly. We want to keep everyone happy.”

Trueblood has liked the job Ogden Legacy has been doing, especially helping Fareway come to Ogden. He feels it’s not only a benefit for those shopping but also for the local youth to get after school jobs.

He also made a point to praise the City of Ogden workers from city administration to the utilities and everyone involved helping make the city run smoothly.

Trueblood, originally from Boxholm, moved to Ogden in 1977 and built a home in 1990. He raised his two daughters with his wife and has five grandchildren.

“I love this community,” he said. “It’s been good to me.”